All 55 Counties Under State Of Preparedness Ahead Of Severe Thunderstorms

Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued a state of preparedness Wednesday that extends through Sunday, April 6.

Forecasts predict multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms with heavy rains and high winds that could cause power outages moving into the region.

“I am urging all West Virginians to heed weather warnings over the next few days as severe storms make their way across the state,” Morrisey said. “As we continue to monitor developments, I have directed all state agencies and resources to prepare to respond as needed.”

Simone Lewis, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Charleston, said West Virginia will see the most severe storms Thursday.

“We’re looking at the potential for all hazards associated with those storms,” she said. “So that would be wind damage, large hail and the possibility of tornadoes.”

The National Weather Service warns that repeated rounds of heavy rainfall over the next several days are likely to result in significant flooding in the Ohio Valley, and advises residents to have an emergency plan in place.

“In case you do need to move to higher ground or evacuate an area, you don’t want to wait until the waters get too high before you get out of an area,” Lewis said. “Also, if you are out traveling over the next several days, you do need to keep an eye out for flooded roadways.”

Lewis said it is never safe to drive into water, even if it appears shallow, because a vehicle can be swept away in as little as six inches of water.

Officials also ask all West Virginians to remain attentive to weather conditions through local media reports and follow any instructions issued by emergency officials.